Kathmandu, Jan. 5 -- Routine tasks make Pradesh Aryal happy. Gathering dirty dishes, loading them carefully into the sink and meticulously cleaning the cups and plates are among the most fulfilling experiences he has had in his 21 years.

"I have a huge responsibility at work. People here need me," said Aryal, beaming with pride.

Aryal, who has Down syndrome, has been working as a dishwasher at Coffee Express in Durbar Marg's Sherpa Mall for a year. The job gives him independence and purpose in life, but more importantly he feels included and equal to everyone else on the team.

"I feel welcomed and respected at work," he said.

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21. St...